Halbrowne61
Well-known member
Yes, it’s a weekly event in our house , and there’s only my wife and I, and she doesn’t wear socks !
She says the washing machine hides them !!!
And today is .......
- Thread starter tiger_one
- Start date
She says the washing machine hides them !!!
Clean Up Your Room Day sweeps onto our calendars each May10. This annual, unofficial holiday encourages everyone to declutter, organize, and thoroughly clean their personal spaces to create a more relaxing and stress-free environment. It can be a popular, fun, and productive day for deep cleaning.
While today is bound to be any parent's or roommate's favourite holiday and perhaps every child's, teenager's and lazy person's nightmare – it sure comes with a commitment for change, promoting clean rooms and homes everywhere and encouraging people to collect their cleaning supplies, don their cleaning clothes and gloves, and spend the day “making change that reveals tidiness, order and serenity.”
The act of cleaning can be an emotional ritual, a coping strategy, and even a form of self-expression. Whatever it means to each of us individually, it is always for the better.
Our clutter builds up fast - on counters, in closets, and across every “I’ll put that away later” surface. If you’ve been wondering how to declutter your home without getting overwhelmed, you’re not alone. To declutter your home effectively, work room by room using simple systems like a four-box method—keep, donate, recycle, or trash—in short, focused sessions so every item has a clear decision and a permanent place. A full clear-out can feel huge, especially when you’re juggling work, family, or running a business.
Cleaning your room in Australia involves a top-to-bottom approach: declutter, dust surfaces (light fixtures, walls), clean windows/mirrors, wash bedding, and vacuum/mop floors.
Empty one small area at a time—a drawer, shelf, or box. Group similar items together (all mugs, all T-shirts, all phone chargers) so you see duplicates.
Then ask:
- Do I use this regularly?
- Do I like it or is it just “there”?
- Would I buy it again today?
- Is this worth the space and cleaning effort it takes?
- Declutter First: Remove items that don't belong, using storage solutions or donating unwanted items to local charities like Vinnies.
- Dust & Wipe (Top to Bottom): Dust ceiling fans, curtain rods, and high shelves before wiping down walls and light switches with a damp cloth.
- Windows & Mirrors: Clean glass with a streak-free cleaner or a microfiber cloth.
- Bedding: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers, and rotate your mattress.
- Floors: Vacuum carpets or mop hard floors (e.g., using a steam mop for a deep clean).
Remember the 50% decluttering rule? Put simply, the 50% rule can help you get rid of half the stuff you might be hoarding in one space, room, or location. 'Instead of stressing over every little thing, you just aim to cut it down by half.
Once you’ve finished the clean/declutter, now the goal is to maintain it with as little effort as possible. This is where ongoing minimalist habits, rather than one-off “spring cleans,” make the biggest difference.
- One-In, One-Out Rule
For clothes, toys, books, and décor, when something new comes in, choose something to donate or discard. This keeps numbers stable instead of creeping up. - Daily 5-Minute Resets
Set a timer in the evening to straighten the living area, collect dishes, and clear kitchen counters. Focus on visible clutter so your home feels instantly better. - Weekly “Reset Hour”
Once a week, walk through your home and:- Empty trash and recycling.
- Return stray items to their rooms.
- Drop off donations or load them into your car.
- Check any hotspots (entry table, dining table, kitchen island).
- Seasonal Reviews
At the change of each season, do quick passes through wardrobes, kids’ items, and decorations. This is a light version of how to declutter your home, not a full overhaul. - Involve The Whole Household
Teach kids and other family members small, clear tasks—like hanging up bags, putting shoes away, or emptying lunchboxes. Shared habits keep clutter from landing on one person.
It becomes so easy to maintain, with discipline; and life just becomes easier, day after day.
All with a declutter here, a “toss out” there ……..
Fun Facts about Cleaning Up:
- Cleaning burns calories
- Cleanliness Can Boost Creativity
- Data reveals the average woman cleans for 12,896 hours in her lifetime, And men clean an average of 6,448 hours.
- The average person spends 87% of their life indoors. That means indoor air quality matters! Regular dusting and vacuuming can help improve indoor air.
- Only 24% of couples equally share the household cleaning.
“Clean space, happy place”
"Clean your space"
"Clear your mind."
“Clean as you go”
Since it’s Mother’s Day & game day, I don’t plan to clean anything or look for the lost socks.
Same, krissy!
Eat What You Want Day comes out of the fridge and onto our calendars each May 11th. It is a light-hearted holiday designed to provide a one-day break from the stresses of dieting and restrictive healthy eating trends.
In today's fast-paced world, where time is premium, diets have taken control of people to wish to live a healthy life. All of us have some kind of dish or food that they love but must stay away from because it is not very healthy. This unofficial holiday allows people to take one day from the year and guiltlessly indulge in their favourite foods.
That’s what today is: that one day, eating without remorse; indulging in our favourite foods guilt-free for one day. It’s not necessarily about eating in excess but rather giving ourselves permission to eat something we usually avoid.
SO:
- Ditch the Diet: Set aside your "no-no" list for 24 hours. Whether it’s donuts, burgers, or ice cream, enjoy them without remorse.
- Try Something New: Use the day as an excuse to visit a restaurant you've been curious about or try a unique food combination.
- Breakfast for Dinner: Flip the script by having pancakes or waffles as your final meal of the day.
- Childhood Favourites: Recreate a nostalgic comfort meal, like your family's secret mac and cheese recipe
Indulgent food choices are endless just about, from fettuccini alfredo to shrimp tempura, and humorous stories of overindulgence, from pizzas to tacos, to exotic, to every-day treats – it’s “all-in.”
Today’s the perfect excuse to ignore the salad drawer, have the pudding, and remember life’s too short to count every crisp. Balance is important… but so is garlic bread.
Eat whatever you want. Pig out on decadent desserts, stuff yourself with delicious food, go into a food coma feasting on rich, yummy dishes.
Eat on foodies!!!
Fun Facts about Eat What You Want Day:
- The Goal is Pleasure, Not Excess: While it sounds like an all-you-can-eat marathon, the true intent is to reduce food-related stress.
- Use the day to face your "food kryptonite" - that one specific treat they usually avoid because they find it irresistible.
- Experts suggest that occasional, intentional indulgence can help reduce feelings of deprivation, making it easier to maintain healthy eating habits long-term.
- View this day as an opportunity to practice listening to your body's true cravings rather than following strict food rules.
"Life’s too short to eat bad food."
"Good food, good mood."
"Calories are just fuel, not a scoreboard."
"First, we eat. Then, we do the things."
Halbrowne61
Well-known member
IN MODERATION!
Use smaller plates and smaller portions of anything you like.
See above, cut the burger in half, half the fries etc.
Once you get in the groove it’s not difficult.
I’m a good example , I’ve increased my weight since I started the above plan and using Ozempic. My doctor says I some sort of freak, the only patient he has who has put on weight using Ozempic !!! ( and eating 1/2 serves) but he says he has a special solution for me !!!!
Sew up my mouth …..
Not funny ….
International Nurses Day (IND) shifts onto our calendars each May 12 marking the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale.
The 2026 theme, set by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), is "Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care," highlighting the vital role of nurses in health systems.
Nursing is not simply a career. It is a commitment to humanity.
From fast-paced emergency departments to quiet aged care facilities, nurses are the constant presence patients rely on. They advocate, they comfort, they lead, and they adapt, often in high-pressure environments where every second matters. Their emotional intelligence is as critical as their clinical expertise.
Yet, what often goes unseen is the strength it takes to show up every day. The long hours. The emotional weight. The responsibility of making decisions that can change lives. And still, they do it. Because for nurses, care is not a task. It is purpose.
Empowered nurses are confident decision-makers.
They are leaders in multidisciplinary teams.
They are innovators who improve patient outcomes.
In Australia, the importance of nurses is reflected not just in stories, but in the numbers:
There are over 450,000 registered nurses and midwives currently in the Australian workforce. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
Healthcare and social assistance remains Australia’s largest employing industry, accounting for around 15% of the total workforce, with registered nurses one of the largest individual occupations within the sector.
Projections indicate that employment for registered nurses is expected to grow by more than 11% over the next five years, driven by an ageing population, chronic illness, and expanding health services.
Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system. They provide essential services that ensure the well-being of patients. They are the first point of contact for patients, delivering compassionate care while also being advocates for health needs. In Australia, nurses work across various settings, such as hospitals, community health centres, and aged care facilities, each contributing to improving patient outcomes.
As healthcare professionals, nurses are at the forefront of implementing evidence-based practices, educating patients, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their expertise is vital in managing chronic diseases, promoting preventive care, and responding to public health crises, such as the COVID-19 Pandemic. Recognising their contributions is crucial in fostering a supportive environment that values and uplifts the nursing profession.
International Nurses Day is not just a celebration, it is a call for action for healthcare leaders, policymakers and the community in recognising and supporting the vital work of nurses. Investing in their professional development and providing them with the necessary resources can enhance the quality of care delivered to patients.
This significant day lets us reflect on the invaluable contribution of nurses in our healthcare system.
As one of the Australian representatives of ICN, the Australian College Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is hosting a free event at the Australian War Memorial Theatre in Canberra on Saturday, 9 May 2026, from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm, while various regional and specialist events are scheduled across the country. The McGrath Foundation and other organizations use this day to spotlight specialized care, such as breast cancer and other cancer nursing support.
To every nurse working tirelessly today:
Your impact is immeasurable. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.
To every future nurse preparing to step into this profession:
The world needs you, not just as a caregiver, but as a leader, an advocate, and a changemaker.
But today, we simply thank you for your service.
Fun Facts about Nursing:
"Caring is the essence of nursing."
“I’m a nurse because ‘miracle worker’ isn’t an official title.”
“Nurses are superheroes in scrubs.”
“When you’re a nurse, you know that every day you will touch a life or a life will touch yours.”
The 2026 theme, set by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), is "Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care," highlighting the vital role of nurses in health systems.
Nursing is not simply a career. It is a commitment to humanity.
From fast-paced emergency departments to quiet aged care facilities, nurses are the constant presence patients rely on. They advocate, they comfort, they lead, and they adapt, often in high-pressure environments where every second matters. Their emotional intelligence is as critical as their clinical expertise.
Yet, what often goes unseen is the strength it takes to show up every day. The long hours. The emotional weight. The responsibility of making decisions that can change lives. And still, they do it. Because for nurses, care is not a task. It is purpose.
Empowered nurses are confident decision-makers.
They are leaders in multidisciplinary teams.
They are innovators who improve patient outcomes.
In Australia, the importance of nurses is reflected not just in stories, but in the numbers:
There are over 450,000 registered nurses and midwives currently in the Australian workforce. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
Healthcare and social assistance remains Australia’s largest employing industry, accounting for around 15% of the total workforce, with registered nurses one of the largest individual occupations within the sector.
Projections indicate that employment for registered nurses is expected to grow by more than 11% over the next five years, driven by an ageing population, chronic illness, and expanding health services.
Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system. They provide essential services that ensure the well-being of patients. They are the first point of contact for patients, delivering compassionate care while also being advocates for health needs. In Australia, nurses work across various settings, such as hospitals, community health centres, and aged care facilities, each contributing to improving patient outcomes.
As healthcare professionals, nurses are at the forefront of implementing evidence-based practices, educating patients, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their expertise is vital in managing chronic diseases, promoting preventive care, and responding to public health crises, such as the COVID-19 Pandemic. Recognising their contributions is crucial in fostering a supportive environment that values and uplifts the nursing profession.
International Nurses Day is not just a celebration, it is a call for action for healthcare leaders, policymakers and the community in recognising and supporting the vital work of nurses. Investing in their professional development and providing them with the necessary resources can enhance the quality of care delivered to patients.
This significant day lets us reflect on the invaluable contribution of nurses in our healthcare system.
As one of the Australian representatives of ICN, the Australian College Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is hosting a free event at the Australian War Memorial Theatre in Canberra on Saturday, 9 May 2026, from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm, while various regional and specialist events are scheduled across the country. The McGrath Foundation and other organizations use this day to spotlight specialized care, such as breast cancer and other cancer nursing support.
To every nurse working tirelessly today:
Your impact is immeasurable. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.
To every future nurse preparing to step into this profession:
The world needs you, not just as a caregiver, but as a leader, an advocate, and a changemaker.
But today, we simply thank you for your service.
Fun Facts about Nursing:
- Nurses walk an average of 6.4–8 km during a typical 12-hour shift. That’s almost a mini-marathon every week!
- Nursing is invariably ranked as the most honest and ethical profession
- There are over 30 million nurses and midwives worldwide, making it the largest healthcare profession on the planet.
- Male representation is growing; in Australia, roughly 10% of nurses are men
- There are over 100 different areas of nursing specialization, ranging from flight nursing to forensic nursing
"Caring is the essence of nursing."
“I’m a nurse because ‘miracle worker’ isn’t an official title.”
“Nurses are superheroes in scrubs.”
“When you’re a nurse, you know that every day you will touch a life or a life will touch yours.”
I have huge respect for Nurses. The long hours of shift work, dealing with difficult patients & often more difficult doctors that treat them like rubbish.
Any time I have been in hospital the nursing staff have been absolutely wonderful to me. They honestly deserve more money than they get, it is not a job I could ever do. Thank you Nurses.
Any time I have been in hospital the nursing staff have been absolutely wonderful to me. They honestly deserve more money than they get, it is not a job I could ever do. Thank you Nurses.
International Hummus Day is served onto our calendars each 13 May,
IHD is an annual, international celebration dedicated to enjoying the Middle Eastern chickpea dip for any meal, with many cafes and restaurants often highlighting special dishes, recipes, or offers on the day.
Hummus is an Eastern Mediterranean and Egyptian food. It may come in the form of a dip or a spread that is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas or other beans, and then blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic. It is low in saturated fat and high in fibre and protein. It’s rich in omega-3 fats, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Including hummus in your diet may help reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, and the risk of heart diseases.
The most basic hummus recipe consists of chickpeas, tahini (ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Some people like different flavours of hummus. These flavours include sun-dried tomato, spinach and artichoke, red pepper, basil pesto, chipotle, roasted garlic, and lemon.
Every flavour of hummus is considered a very healthy food, too. Hummus packs a wide variety of vitamins and minerals into a single serving. With each delicious bite:
People all over the world eat hummus because it’s free of many common food allergens, including gluten, nuts, and dairy. The tahini (sesame paste) and olive oil in hummus contain heart-healthy fats that help improve cholesterol levels.
Hummus has transcended its Middle Eastern origins to become a global culinary staple. Its rise in popularity has led to the creation of various flavours and its incorporation into diverse dishes, reflecting its adaptability and widespread appeal.
While traditional hummus is fabulous, it is made so much better by the items that are dipped into or poured on top of! Mix it up by adding a few of these to the hummus repertoire:
Hummus is more than just a dip—it’s a cultural icon, a health food hero, and a unifier of taste buds around the globe. So, the next time you enjoy a scoop of Holy Hummus, remember: you’re part of a centuries-old tradition that continues to inspire and delight.
If you’ve never tried hummus, grab some pita bread or carrots and give it a try.
And if you’re already a “Hummus-believer,” keep enjoying all that’s so good for you.
Fun Facts about Hummus:
"Dip dreams are made of peas."
"Life is smoother with a little tahini."
“Hummus is proof that good things spread”
“Spreading good vibes one pita at a time”
IHD is an annual, international celebration dedicated to enjoying the Middle Eastern chickpea dip for any meal, with many cafes and restaurants often highlighting special dishes, recipes, or offers on the day.
Hummus is an Eastern Mediterranean and Egyptian food. It may come in the form of a dip or a spread that is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas or other beans, and then blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic. It is low in saturated fat and high in fibre and protein. It’s rich in omega-3 fats, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Including hummus in your diet may help reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, and the risk of heart diseases.
The most basic hummus recipe consists of chickpeas, tahini (ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Some people like different flavours of hummus. These flavours include sun-dried tomato, spinach and artichoke, red pepper, basil pesto, chipotle, roasted garlic, and lemon.
Every flavour of hummus is considered a very healthy food, too. Hummus packs a wide variety of vitamins and minerals into a single serving. With each delicious bite:
- Hummus provides folate, copper, manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc, and Vitamin B6.
- Hummus is also a low-carb food with a plant-based protein.
- It’s high in fibre, which promotes digestive health and feeds good gut bacteria.
- The ingredients used have been proven to fight inflammation.
- It has a low glycemic index, which means it helps control blood sugar levels.
- Chickpeas are considered a heart-healthy food that reduces the risk of heart disease.
- It promotes weight loss and the ability to maintain a healthy body weight.
People all over the world eat hummus because it’s free of many common food allergens, including gluten, nuts, and dairy. The tahini (sesame paste) and olive oil in hummus contain heart-healthy fats that help improve cholesterol levels.
Hummus has transcended its Middle Eastern origins to become a global culinary staple. Its rise in popularity has led to the creation of various flavours and its incorporation into diverse dishes, reflecting its adaptability and widespread appeal.
While traditional hummus is fabulous, it is made so much better by the items that are dipped into or poured on top of! Mix it up by adding a few of these to the hummus repertoire:
- Vegetables. Including carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, sliced bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini slices or radishes.
- Bread. More than just a boring old slice of toast, bread can be an exciting foray into the world of hummus. Try using pretzel sticks, pita bread slices, bagel chips, crackers, tortilla chips, rice cakes, or crusty bread pieces.
Hummus is more than just a dip—it’s a cultural icon, a health food hero, and a unifier of taste buds around the globe. So, the next time you enjoy a scoop of Holy Hummus, remember: you’re part of a centuries-old tradition that continues to inspire and delight.
If you’ve never tried hummus, grab some pita bread or carrots and give it a try.
And if you’re already a “Hummus-believer,” keep enjoying all that’s so good for you.
Fun Facts about Hummus:
- Beyond traditional, hummus comes in many flavours, including roasted red pepper, black olive, pesto, and even chocolate.
- Hummus has been called a “peace food” by some, symbolizing unity in the Middle East. Its widespread popularity and shared history across cultures make it a dish that brings people together—one pita chip at a time.
- Astronauts have taken hummus to space! Its long shelf life and nutrient-packed profile make it an ideal snack for zero-gravity munching.
"Dip dreams are made of peas."
"Life is smoother with a little tahini."
“Hummus is proof that good things spread”
“Spreading good vibes one pita at a time”
